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Image by Neil McDermott
I’ve walked by Pearse Square enough times without paying it too much attention but if you’re in the area visiting somewhere like the redeveloped Grand Canal area, then this pleasant square is a nice diversion.
Pearse square was built in the 1830s and was originally called Queen’s Square, named in honour of Queen Victoria. The political upheavals of the 20th Century led to its re-naming but you can still see a sign bearing the square’s original name on one of the corners. An interesting side note is that many of the square’s early residents were actors in the Queen’s Royal Theatre located nearby but which sadly no longer exists.
Happily, Pearse Square is one of those genuine family neighbourhoods and has avoided the type of corporate gentrification that you can find elsewhere so take a few minutes to have a look around. Opposite the square is the impressive red-brick St. Andrew’s, once a school for the Docklands area, now a busy community centre. Come on a Saturday and there is a popular food market in St. Andrew’s as well.
Pearse Square | Art & culture, Relaxing
Pearse Square
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I was raised in Number 5 Pearse Square. I well remember during a fifties “Panto” season at the Queens the seven Dwarfs lodging there during the christmas season.
My mum grew up in no. 55 Pearse Sq, I have a lot of very happy memories of visiting my nanny there, and playing with my siblings and cousins in the square, although the square is looking great it is sad to see the playgrounds no longer exist and the little centre where we spent many a day.
My mom was born in the square in 1927, she grew up in # 45. I had the opportunity to stay there with family on many a visit from Canada from the early 1970′s to 2000. Everyone on the square was so friendly! I have been back a few times the last 10 years, but have stayed elsewhere. Even so, we always take time to walk around the square and reminisce. Can’t wait to do it again.
That’s very interesting Gail. My great-grandmother would have lived here as well at the turn of the 20th century
Love Love Love this place! My mom my mom’s family grew up in Pearse Square. The family home is currently under renovations. My 3 sisters and I are coming to Dublin from Canada in July 201, and we would love to stay at the square. If anyone knows of someone who lives in the square that could rent us out a suite for 2-3 weeks that would be AWESOME!
Gail from Canada